Librarians with class

For librarians who facilitate training

Brenda Hough & Rebecca Richardson & Jeanne Roy

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Choose Your Adventure

The Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County does a lot of innovative things, but their new staff development technology training program is one of my favorites. It's called 23 Things and involves 9 weeks of working with new technologies. Here are some of the words from the description... 'discover,' 'take a look,' 'explore,' 'have fun,' and 'play around.' Those are words that represent a new way of thinking about technology learning. The format, tone, and flexibility of the program are all impressive. I don't work for the library system, but I feel like doing the tasks!

I would guess that providing people the space and the incentive to try out these new technologies will be much more effective than offering 9-weeks worth of workshops on these same topics would be.

More libraries are offering technology training for staff and patrons. Learn how to use interactive techniques to address varying skill levels, adapt to multiple learning styles, and deliver technology with greater impact. This program is part of the Librarian's Continuing Education Seminar Series, sponsored by the Johnson County Library.